Smark Out Moment

Welcome to another edition of WOMEN'S WRESTLING WEEKLY—a rundown of the events which have transpired in the world of women's professional wrestling over the past several days not just with the Superstars on WWE programming, but with Impact Wrestling's Knockouts, Lucha Underground's luchadoras, and even a glimpse at the women on the independent circuit.



Paige, Sonya Deville & Mandy Rose vs. Sasha Banks

Sasha was supposed to have Bayley and Mickie James by her side, but Paige and her new sidekicks took care of those two backstage. Paige cut a promo on how she is the matriarch of the women's revolution in WWE and Sonya and Mandy both back her up, proclaiming their group to be "Absolution." Better than PMS, I suppose. Sasha attacked Paige, but the numbers game proved too much and she was planted with a Rampaige.

Sonya and Mandy both need some polishing on the mic, but that sort of comfort comes with time. They both have a ton of potential and Paige can more than carry their weight on the mic. She sounds better than ever and her return has proved to be more than refreshing for Raw's women's division.

Asuka vs. Dana Brooke

Asuka made Dana tap in two seconds.

No, really. It was awesome.

After, Absolution came out to stare Asuka down, surrounding the ring, but they backed away and let Asuka leave the ring with an evil smile on her face. They weren't ready for Asuka.

Winner: Asuka
Rating: 3/5



The Riott Squad vs. Charlotte, Naomi & Natalya

Early into the match, Natalya abandoned Charlotte and Naomi to Ruby Riott, Liv Morgan and Sarah Logan, wanting no part in the match after the newbies took an early lead. The Riott squad then proceeded to injure Naomi to remove HER from the equation before using the numbers game to pin Charlotte for the victory.

I adore Ruby Riott, even though the riot puns are already starting to feel forced. But eh, it's not her fault. Morgan and Logan both look fantastic in the ring, and Riot looks to be more than ready to be the face of this invasion angle. She has a unique look, charisma to spare and a ring presence that can only come with years of experience at a high level.

Winner: Riott Squad
Rating: 3/5



Laurel Van Ness vs. Madison Rayne vs. KC Spinelli

Two triple threat matches will be held to determine the next contender for the vacant Knockouts Championship. This match was fairly even throughout, but Van Ness was able to hit her beautiful Unprettier on KC Spinelli for the victory. She will challenge next week's winner for the title.

Winner: Laurel Van Ness
Rating: 2.5/5



Kairi Sane vs. Peyton Royce

Kairi Sane's existence can solve most of the world's problems, I'm sure. The match began evenly, but distraction from the world's best life partner Billie Kay allowed Royce to take control of the match with a spinning kick. However, Sane fought back with a spear and managed to take Kay out of the equation to land the Insane Elbow.

Royce is fantastic, and she has very fun chemistry with Sane. I hope this grows into a real feud, because Royce and Kay both have the kind of personalities that would be wonderful foils to contrast with Sane and help audiences get to know her.

Winner: Kairi Sane
Rating: 3.5/5



This section includes recaps of matches from around the world in various lesser-known independent promotions throughout the week.

RISE

Match: Toni Storm vs. Mercedes Martinez (World of Stardom Championship match)
Winner: Toni Storm

I Belive In Wrestling

Match: Salina de la Renta vs. Aria Blake vs. Sofi Castillo
Winner: Salina de la Renta

Dynamo Pro

Match: Savanna Stone vs. The Snitch
Winner: Savanna Stone

Queens of Combat

Match: Su Yung vs. Mickie Knuckles vs. Samantha Heights (Queens of Combat Championship match)
Winner: Su Yung


Were there longer matches? Yes. Were there more technically dynamic matches? Yes. But were there any other matches with a two-second tapout via armbar? I think not!


Ruby Riott emerged as a capable mouthpiece and also as equally engaging as a heel as she was as a face. Riott is an amazing choice to take the reins of NXT's invasion of SmackDown and she is certain to make a recognizable impact.

So there you have it, the breakdown for the week in women's wrestling. What were some of your favorite and least favorite moments from these women? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!